After installing the big star grill, I closed the hood to check the fitment. I unlatched the hood and when I pulled on the latch release, it won't release the hood. Anyone come across this problem? Doesn't make any sense since latch has the full range of motion. Thanks in advance for any advice.

Did your new grille come with an new longer hood release?

try to pull a little harder, since its in there more

Yea came with one, but hadn't installed it yet. Is there a trick to removing the old one?

If I pull any harder, I will rip it out. This thing is frustrating as hell.

Use a flat head and open the latch manually.

take a pair of pliers and pull that thing as hard as you can, once you get it up. cut the old hood release and get an extended handle or just stick your hand in there to open till you get a longer hood release.